Chunk: it-is-just-that

Formulaic Unit

Meaning: A conversational mitigater used to gently introduce a reason, an excuse, or a hesitation, often used when declining an invitation or explaining why something is problematic.

💬 Contextual Examples

I'd love to come to dinner; it's just that I am feeling really tired today.
I like the dress. It's just that the color doesn't really suit me.

🎴 Interactive Web Practice (Click to Reveal)

Practice 1: I want to help you; it is ______ that I don't have any free time this week.

Answer: just

Practice 2: It's not that I don't like the food, it's just ______ I'm not hungry.

Answer: that

🔗 Knowledge Base Connections

🔑 Parent Keyword: just